By Anne Das
The inaugural Manjung Run 2024, jointly organised by Vale and Majlis Perbandaran Manjung (MPM), exceeded expectations by drawing over 2,000 runners from across the nation. This exciting event, held at Padang Bandaran Beruas, combined fitness with tourism, offering scenic trails through the charming, historic town of Beruas, located in the heart of Perak’s Manjung district.
Designed to promote healthier lifestyles and local tourism, the race featured four categories—21km, 12km, 5km, and 3km—catering to a range of fitness levels. Runners, whether seasoned marathoners or first-time participants, were treated to stunning views of Beruas’ colonial-era shophouses, the revitalised Beruas Museum, and the majestic Ulu Licin waterfall.
The day’s top winners in the 21km open category were Mohammad Izul Amirul Mukmim for the men’s division and Diong Kai Chin for the women’s division, while Mohd Ezmir Ahmad and Voon Yeen claimed victory in the 21km veteran category. All participants who completed their races were awarded a custom-designed medal featuring the iconic Beruas shophouse facade.
Local dignitaries, including YB Dato’ Mohd Zolkafly Harun and YB Dato’ Mohd Zaki Mahyudin, were present to officiate the event. Tuan Muhammad Faizal Shah Safian Suri, Yang Dipertua Majlis Perbandaran Manjung, highlighted the significance of the run, noting that it attracted participants from across the state. He emphasised how the event showcased Beruas’ rich cultural and natural heritage, from its historic links to Gangga Negara—one of Southeast Asia’s oldest civilizations—to its biodiversity-rich surroundings.
Adding to the excitement, a mural commissioned by Vale and MPM in collaboration with local artists was unveiled. The mural celebrates Beruas’ heritage, depicting a woman in traditional Perak attire, surrounded by batik motifs and the symbolic Beruas tree, from which the town takes its name.
Speaking at the event, Vale’s CEO in Malaysia, Mr. Leonardo Paiva, expressed the company’s long-standing commitment to Beruas and Manjung. “Manjung Run 2024 brings together fitness, history, and community spirit. This event complements our ongoing collaboration with MPM to foster sustainable development and the preservation of Beruas’ unique cultural and historical assets.”
The Manjung Run is part of broader efforts to boost tourism and economic growth in the Manjung district. Proceeds from the event, totaling RM36,000, will go towards rejuvenation projects in Beruas, focusing on sustainable and heritage-centred urban development.
These initiatives build on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Vale and MPM in 2023, which aims to support inclusive development that benefits both the community and future generations.
Runners and visitors alike enjoyed not only the sporting challenge but also the opportunity to explore local eateries, savouring the unique culinary offerings of Beruas, and immerse themselves in its heritage.
